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Dogs don’t do laundry, but somehow they manage to create most of it. Between muddy paws, fur-covered blankets, slobbery toys, and that unmistakable dog-bed smell, laundry can feel like a never-ending chore. And just when everything is finally clean, your pup finds a fresh patch of dirt to roll around in.
Fortunately, a few smart dog laundry products can make the job more manageable. Pet laundry detergents, enzyme-based stain removers, odor-fighting additives, and pet hair removal tools are designed to tackle some of the messiest parts of sharing your home with a dog. There are even washing machine cleaners made for households where fur seems to end up absolutely everywhere.
But do you really need a special laundry detergent for dogs? Not necessarily, and knowing what works best for your pup’s bedding, blankets, and other washable belongings can save you money and unnecessary laundry products. These dog laundry essentials offer practical options for everything from everyday washing to stubborn pet odors, plus guidance on keeping your dog’s favorite things clean.
Dog Laundry Products for Cleaner Beds, Blankets, and More
Whether you’re dealing with a heavy shedder, a mud-loving adventurer, or a dog who has claimed every blanket in the house, these laundry finds can help simplify cleanup. Some replace regular detergent, while others are designed to be used as additives or laundry accessories, so it’s important to choose the right product for the job.
Pet Laundry Detergents for Everyday Washing
A good detergent is the foundation of a dog-friendly laundry routine. Pet-specific formulas may offer additional stain- and odor-fighting ingredients, but a suitable regular detergent can also work well for many dogs.
1. ACTIVE Enzyme Based Pet Laundry Detergent
For the dog bed that smells suspiciously like its favorite occupant. ACTIVE Enzyme Based Pet Laundry Detergent is formulated specifically for pet-related laundry, using enzymes to help break down organic stains and odors. It’s an option for washing dog bedding, blankets, and other machine-washable items that collect the evidence of your pup’s daily adventures.
Enzyme-based detergents are especially worth considering when ordinary washing doesn’t seem to tackle lingering pet smells. Follow the product’s dosage instructions and your bedding’s care label, since more detergent isn’t necessarily better and some materials require special handling.
2. Biokleen Natural Laundry Detergent Liquid
Sometimes the simplest laundry solution is the one you already need. Biokleen Natural Laundry Detergent Liquid offers an alternative to specialized pet laundry products for everyday washing. It’s a useful addition to this roundup because dog bedding doesn’t automatically require a detergent labeled specifically for pets.
When choosing a detergent for your dog’s belongings, check the exact formula rather than assuming every product from a brand has the same ingredients. Fragrance-free and dye-free options may be preferable for dogs with sensitive skin, and all laundry should be thoroughly rinsed and dried before your pup uses it again.
3. Earth Breeze Pet Laundry Detergent Powder
For the blankets that have seen a little too much adventure. Earth Breeze Pet Laundry Detergent Powder is another pet-focused washing option to consider for the fabrics your dog uses most. A powder detergent may appeal to households that prefer measuring out detergent for individual loads rather than using a liquid formula.
The key is matching the detergent to your washing machine, the fabric, and the type of mess you’re dealing with. Check the manufacturer’s instructions for proper dosing and water-temperature compatibility, and remember that heavily soiled items may benefit from pretreatment before going into the wash.
Laundry Odor Removers and Stain-Fighting Boosters
Sometimes washing a dog blanket once isn’t enough to get rid of the smell. Laundry boosters and odor removers are designed to work alongside a detergent, although they aren’t all interchangeable and shouldn’t automatically be combined in the same load.
4. POOPH Laundry Odor Eliminator Additive
Because clean laundry shouldn’t still smell like yesterday’s dog park. POOPH Laundry Odor Eliminator Additive is intended to address unwanted odors in washable fabrics. It may be useful for dog blankets, bedding, and other items that seem to hold onto pet smells even after a normal wash.
An odor-focused additive can be a helpful option when you’re satisfied with your regular detergent but want extra attention on stubborn smells. Use it according to the label and avoid mixing multiple laundry treatments unless their instructions explicitly allow it.
5. Febreze Laundry Detergent Additive for Pet Supplies
For those loads that need a little extra attention. Febreze Laundry Detergent Additive for Pet Supplies offers another way to address odors that accumulate in frequently used pet fabrics. Dog blankets, washable crate mats, and furniture covers can all develop lingering smells after repeated use.
Before adding a scented laundry product to your dog’s routine, consider how your pup responds to fragrances. Dogs with sensitive skin or fragrance sensitivities may do better with fragrance-free laundry products, and a strong scent shouldn’t be mistaken for proof that a fabric is thoroughly clean.
6. Odorcide Laundry Pet Odor Eliminator
Some dog smells really know how to make themselves at home. Odorcide Laundry Pet Odor Eliminator is intended for tackling pet-related odors in laundry. It’s a product to consider when bedding or blankets retain an unpleasant smell after ordinary cleaning.
Odor-removing additives are most useful when they’re selected for a specific problem rather than added to every load automatically. Follow the manufacturer’s directions carefully, and check whether the product is suitable for the fabric and washing machine you’re using.
7. Nature’s Miracle Laundry Boost In-Wash Pet Stain & Odor Remover
For the messes your dog would rather not discuss. Nature’s Miracle Laundry Boost In-Wash Pet Stain & Odor Remover is designed to help address pet stains and odors during washing. It’s a practical option for washable fabrics affected by accidents, drool, and other organic messes.
Pretreating a visible stain before washing can improve your chances of getting it out, especially if you act before the stain sets. Check the product instructions for compatibility with your detergent, and inspect the fabric after washing before using heat that could make a remaining stain harder to remove.
8. SKOUT’S HONOR Pet Laundry Booster
A little backup for your regular detergent. SKOUT’S HONOR Pet Laundry Booster is another product aimed at helping with the stains and odors that come with life alongside pets. Rather than replacing your regular detergent, a laundry booster is intended to supplement the wash when extra cleaning help is needed.
This type of product may be especially appealing for households that already have a detergent they like. Just be selective about which additive you use, since adding several different boosters to one load can be unnecessary and may conflict with product directions.
Pet Hair Laundry Tools for Fur-Covered Fabrics
If your dog sheds, you’ve probably discovered that washing a blanket doesn’t always mean every strand of fur disappears. Removing as much loose hair as possible before washing is still one of the most useful steps, but certain laundry accessories may help manage what remains.
9. Bounce Pet Hair and Lint Guard Mega Dryer Sheets
For clothes that come out of the dryer looking like the dog climbed inside. Bounce Pet Hair and Lint Guard Mega Dryer Sheets are designed to reduce static and help discourage pet hair and lint from clinging to fabrics. They may be useful for clothing and other dryer-safe items that attract loose fur.
These sheets are not a substitute for removing heavy buildup before washing, and they won’t necessarily be appropriate for every load. Check the care label and dryer-sheet instructions, particularly for absorbent towels, specialty fabrics, or items used by dogs with sensitive skin. Consider an unscented option when available.
10. Friendsheep Wool Dryer Balls
A reusable little helper for laundry day. Friendsheep Wool Dryer Balls offer an alternative to disposable dryer sheets for people who prefer a simpler drying routine. Wool dryer balls help separate tumbling fabrics, which can improve airflow during drying.
They’re a nice addition to a dog household that washes blankets, towels, and bedding frequently. However, they aren’t specifically designed to remove embedded pet hair, and they shouldn’t be treated as a substitute for brushing, shaking, or vacuuming fur-covered fabrics before washing.
11. Reusable Pet Hair Remover Balls for Washing Machines & Dryers
Tiny laundry helpers with a very big assignment. These Reusable Pet Hair Remover Balls for Washing Machines & Dryers are marketed as tools for collecting or loosening pet hair during laundry. They may appeal to anyone who has opened the washing machine only to discover that half the dog’s coat is still attached to a blanket.
Results can vary depending on fabric type, fur length, load size, and the design of the product. Before using them, confirm that the specific balls are approved for your type of washing machine or dryer, and don’t rely on them to remove large amounts of hair without pretreatment.
Washing Machine Cleaners for Homes With Dogs
Your dog’s laundry isn’t the only thing that needs attention. Washing machines can accumulate detergent residue, debris, and pet hair, especially when they’re regularly used for bulky blankets and bedding.
12. Uproot Clean Washing Machine Cleaning Tablets for Pet Owners
Even the washing machine deserves a cleanup after dealing with your dog. Uproot Clean Washing Machine Cleaning Tablets for Pet Owners are intended to help maintain a washer that regularly handles pet laundry. They’re a convenient product to consider for households washing dog blankets, towels, and other furry fabrics week after week.
A washer-cleaning tablet is only one part of machine maintenance, though. Regularly inspect accessible seals, remove trapped hair, and clean the filter according to your washing machine manufacturer’s instructions. A tablet shouldn’t be expected to clear a physical blockage of pet hair.
13. ACTIVE Washing Machine Cleaner for Pet Owners
Because your washer has been through enough already. ACTIVE Washing Machine Cleaner for Pet Owners offers another option for maintaining a washing machine used frequently for pet bedding and other heavily soiled laundry. It’s designed for cleaning the machine itself, not for adding to a normal load of dog blankets.
Check compatibility with your washer before use, and follow the recommended cleaning cycle and dosage. If you notice persistent drainage problems, unusual noises, or visible hair buildup, inspect the machine and follow the manufacturer’s maintenance guidance rather than assuming a cleaning product will solve the issue.
Do You Really Need Pet Laundry Detergent?
Not every dog household needs a special detergent for washing pet bedding. For many dogs, an ordinary laundry detergent that cleans effectively, rinses well, and is compatible with the fabric can do the job.
The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention advises using laundry detergent when washing soft pet items and notes that formulas without dyes or fragrances may be a better choice for pets with sensitive skin. The agency also recommends selecting the appropriate washing cycle and water temperature based on the material.
Pet-specific detergents can still be useful, particularly when you’re dealing with persistent organic stains and odors. Enzyme-based formulas are designed to break down certain types of residue, which may make them worth considering for accident-prone dogs or heavily used bedding.
The important thing is to understand the difference between a detergent and an additive. A detergent is the primary cleaning product, while a laundry booster or odor remover is generally intended to supplement it. You don’t need to use every product in this roundup to achieve clean laundry.
If your dog develops itching, redness, or other skin changes after a switch in laundry products, stop using the new product and consult your veterinarian.
How to Wash Dog Beds and Blankets
Washing dog bedding properly helps remove dirt, hair, and everyday grime while keeping your pup’s sleeping area comfortable. The American Kennel Club’s dog bed cleaning guide recommends checking the bed’s material and care instructions, removing loose fur, and ensuring bedding dries thoroughly.
1. Remove Loose Dog Hair First
Before putting a dog bed cover or blanket into the washing machine, shake it outdoors to dislodge loose fur. A vacuum, lint roller, or rubber glove can help remove hair that’s clinging to the fabric.
This step is particularly important for heavily shedding dogs because wet fur can clump together and collect inside the washer. Removing as much as possible beforehand also reduces the amount of debris the machine has to handle.
2. Check the Care Label
Not every dog bed is designed to go into a washing machine. Some have removable washable covers, while others contain foam or fillings that require different cleaning methods.
Follow the manufacturer’s instructions for water temperature, wash cycle, and drying. If the bed is too large for your home washer, consider a suitably sized commercial machine if the care label permits machine washing.
3. Choose an Appropriate Detergent
A suitable regular detergent or pet-specific laundry formula can be used for many washable dog items. Fragrance-free and dye-free options are worth considering for dogs with sensitive skin.
Measure the detergent according to its directions and the load size. Using more than recommended can leave unwanted residue and doesn’t guarantee better cleaning.
4. Pretreat Stains When Necessary
Mud, drool, and pet accidents may need attention before a normal wash. Choose a stain treatment compatible with the fabric and follow the label’s application and waiting-time instructions.
Avoid combining cleaners or adding household chemicals without checking compatibility. In particular, never mix bleach with ammonia or other incompatible cleaning products.
5. Wash and Dry Thoroughly
Use a wash cycle and water temperature appropriate for the fabric, then dry according to the care label. The CDC explains that a dryer at its highest heat setting for 30 minutes can be used for disinfection when the material can safely tolerate that treatment.
For ordinary washing, the hottest setting isn’t always the best choice because heat can damage certain fabrics and bed fillings. Make sure thick bedding is completely dry before returning it to your dog’s sleeping area, since trapped moisture can encourage mold and mildew.
How to Remove Dog Hair Before Washing
Anyone who lives with a heavy shedder knows that dog hair has an impressive ability to weave itself into blankets, clothing, and upholstery. Unfortunately, a washing machine isn’t designed to handle unlimited amounts of loose fur.
The AKC recommends removing excess hair before laundering pet bedding and blankets. Its guide to removing dog hair discusses techniques such as shaking fabrics outdoors, using rubber gloves, and vacuuming upholstered surfaces.
For better results, try these steps:
- Shake blankets outdoors. This removes loose fur before it reaches the washing machine.
- Vacuum dog beds and furniture covers. Use an upholstery attachment to collect hair from fabric surfaces and seams.
- Try a slightly damp rubber glove. The friction can help gather stubborn strands into removable clumps.
- Use a lint roller or pet hair remover. These tools can help with smaller items and areas where fur is embedded.
- Avoid overloading the washer. Fabrics need room to move so water and detergent can circulate properly.
- Clean the lint trap and washer regularly. Check accessible areas for hair buildup and follow appliance maintenance instructions.
Pet hair remover balls and specialty dryer sheets may offer additional help, but their performance varies. The most reliable approach is to remove loose hair before washing rather than expecting a single laundry gadget to handle everything.
How Often Should You Wash Your Dog’s Bedding?
The CDC recommends cleaning pet beds and blankets every week as a general routine. More frequent cleaning may be necessary if the bedding becomes visibly dirty, develops an odor, or is used by a sick pet.
The AKC also discusses weekly washing as a useful guideline, while noting that the right schedule depends on the individual dog and their habits. A muddy, heavy-shedding dog who spends hours outdoors may need more frequent bedding washes than a low-shedding dog who rarely gets dirty.
Here’s a practical starting point for a dog-friendly laundry schedule:
| Laundry item | Suggested routine |
| Dog bed covers and blankets | About once a week |
| Dog towels | After use when dirty or damp |
| Washable crate mats | Weekly or sooner when soiled |
| Fabric dog toys | When dirty, following the care label |
| Couch covers used by dogs | Weekly or as needed |
| Dog clothing and bandanas | When visibly dirty or after messy outings |
| Washing machine maintenance | Follow the appliance manufacturer’s schedule |
The goal isn’t to wash everything constantly. It’s to keep the fabrics your dog regularly touches clean, dry, and comfortable while adjusting the schedule to your household’s needs.
How to Choose Laundry Products for a Dog-Friendly Home
Consider Your Dog’s Skin Sensitivity
If your dog has sensitive skin, start by looking for a detergent without added fragrance or dyes. The CDC specifically notes that these formulas may be a better choice for pets with skin sensitivities.
Avoid assuming that products described as natural, gentle, or pet-friendly will automatically suit every dog. Ingredient lists, proper rinsing, and your dog’s individual response are all important considerations.
Match the Product to the Problem
If your dog’s bedding is simply dirty, a suitable detergent may be all you need. If you’re dealing with a lingering organic stain or odor, a specialized enzyme-based detergent or compatible booster may be more useful.
For pet hair, focus first on mechanical removal using a vacuum, lint roller, or other fabric-safe tool. Washing machine cleaners, meanwhile, are intended to maintain the appliance rather than remove hair from clothing.
Check Washing Machine Compatibility
Laundry products should be suitable for your specific washing machine, particularly if you have a high-efficiency model. Check the label for HE compatibility, dosage instructions, and any restrictions on use.
The same principle applies to laundry accessories. Dryer balls, pet hair remover balls, and cleaning tablets should only be used in the appliances and cycles approved by their manufacturers.
Remember That Cleaning and Disinfecting Are Different
The CDC distinguishes between cleaning, which removes dirt and germs, and disinfecting, which kills germs using appropriate methods or products. For most everyday pet items, routine cleaning is generally sufficient, although disinfection may be needed in certain circumstances.
If your dog is sick or someone in the household is especially vulnerable to infection, additional cleaning and disinfection may be appropriate. Always follow product instructions and keep pets away from cleaning chemicals until items are safe to use.
Frequently Asked Questions About Dog Laundry
1. What is the best laundry detergent for dog bedding?
The best detergent is one that effectively cleans the fabric, is compatible with your washing machine, and suits your dog’s needs. Fragrance-free and dye-free formulas may be preferable for sensitive dogs, while enzyme-based detergents can be useful for certain stubborn stains and odors.
2. Do dogs need special pet laundry detergent?
Most dogs don’t automatically need a pet-specific detergent for their bedding and blankets. A suitable regular detergent can work well, although specialty products may help with particular pet-related messes.
3. Can I wash dog blankets with my regular laundry?
The CDC says pet items can be washed in the same washing machine as human clothing. Follow fabric-care instructions, use an appropriate detergent, and consider washing heavily soiled items separately for convenience.
4. How often should dog beds be washed?
Weekly cleaning is a useful general guideline recommended by the CDC. Wash bedding sooner if it becomes dirty, wet, or smelly, or if your dog’s health or activities call for more frequent cleaning.
5. How do you get dog smell out of blankets?
Start by removing loose hair and washing the blanket according to its care label with an appropriate detergent. If odors persist, consider a compatible pet odor remover or enzyme-based laundry product and make sure the blanket dries completely.
6. Do enzyme laundry detergents work on pet stains?
Enzyme detergents are designed to break down certain organic substances, which can make them useful for pet-related stains. Their effectiveness depends on the formula, the type and age of the stain, and whether the product is used correctly.
7. How do you remove dog hair from laundry?
Shake or vacuum fur-covered fabrics before washing, and use a lint roller or rubber glove to remove stubborn hair. Laundry accessories may provide additional help, but they aren’t guaranteed to remove all embedded fur.
8. Are dryer sheets safe for dog blankets?
Dryer sheets aren’t necessary for cleaning dog bedding, and scented or fabric-softening products may not be suitable for every dog or fabric. Check the care label and product instructions, and consider skipping them for dogs with sensitive skin.
9. Can wool dryer balls remove pet hair?
Wool dryer balls are primarily used to help separate fabrics and improve airflow during drying. They aren’t specialized pet hair removers, so it’s best to remove loose fur before washing.
10. Can you wash an entire dog bed in the washing machine?
Some dog beds are fully machine washable, while others have removable covers or fillings that shouldn’t be washed. Always check the manufacturer’s care instructions before putting a bed into the machine.
11. How do you clean a washing machine after washing dog bedding?
Remove visible fur from accessible areas, check the filter and door seal according to the manufacturer’s instructions, and run a washer-cleaning cycle when recommended. A compatible washing machine cleaner may help with residue, but it won’t replace physical removal of trapped hair.
12. Should I use hot water to wash dog bedding?
Use the water temperature recommended on the fabric’s care label. Hotter water can be useful for some cleaning and disinfection purposes, but it may damage certain materials, so it isn’t the right choice for every bed or blanket.
13. What laundry products are most useful for heavy-shedding dogs?
A reliable detergent, pet hair remover, lint roller, and a way to remove fur before washing are practical starting points. Dryer accessories and washing machine maintenance products can supplement the routine, but regular brushing and pre-wash hair removal remain important.
Cleaner Laundry, Happier Lounging
Your dog may never appreciate the effort that goes into keeping their blankets fresh, their bed clean, or your favorite sweatshirt free of fur. They’ll probably celebrate laundry day by climbing straight onto the warmest blanket and making themselves comfortable again.
But with the right dog laundry essentials and a consistent cleaning routine, managing fur, stains, and odors doesn’t have to be quite such a chore. Whether you choose a specialized pet detergent, a targeted laundry booster, or a few simple tools for dealing with shedding, the goal is the same: clean, comfortable fabrics for the dog who makes your house feel like home.
This content was created with AI assistance and edited by the iHeartDogs team.
Toledo, United States.